U.S. patent application number 16/986064 was filed with the patent office on 2020-11-19 for method, apparatus, and a system for robotic assisted surgery.
The applicant listed for this patent is Auris Health, Inc.. Invention is credited to Jeffery B. Alvarez, Greg Kintz, David Mintz, Serena Wong.
Application Number | 20200360183 16/986064 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005004581 |
Filed Date | 2020-11-19 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200360183 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Alvarez; Jeffery B. ; et
al. |
November 19, 2020 |
METHOD, APPARATUS, AND A SYSTEM FOR ROBOTIC ASSISTED SURGERY
Abstract
Systems and processes for facilitating the removal of material
with a robotically assisted tool with laser, irrigation
capabilities, aspiration capabilities. Tool guidance systems that
make use of vision technologies, including optical coherence
tomography (OCT), white light imaging, and structured light
imaging. Emulsification patterns optimized to minimize risk to the
patient and reduce procedure time. Robotic tools with articulation
capabilities that allow for precise control during capsulorhexis
and emulsification procedures. Robotic instrument drive mechanisms
combined with pumps, flow meters, and valves regulate and control
irrigation and aspiration functionalities during robotic
ophthalmologic procedures.
Inventors: |
Alvarez; Jeffery B.;
(Redwood City, CA) ; Kintz; Greg; (Santa Cruz,
CA) ; Mintz; David; (Los Altos Hills, CA) ;
Wong; Serena; (Mountain View, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Auris Health, Inc. |
Redwood City |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005004581 |
Appl. No.: |
16/986064 |
Filed: |
August 5, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14301871 |
Jun 11, 2014 |
10744035 |
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16986064 |
|
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61833835 |
Jun 11, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2009/00887
20130101; A61F 9/00736 20130101; A61B 34/30 20160201; A61F
2009/00889 20130101; A61F 2009/0087 20130101; A61F 2009/00851
20130101; A61B 34/37 20160201; A61F 9/008 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 9/008 20060101
A61F009/008; A61F 9/007 20060101 A61F009/007; A61B 34/37 20060101
A61B034/37; A61B 34/30 20060101 A61B034/30 |
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. A method comprising: inserting a first tool into a chamber of a
patient, the first tool housing at least one laser fiber and
configured to be attached to a first robotic arm; inserting a
second tool into the chamber of the patient, the second tool
comprising an aspiration device, wherein the second tool is
configured to be attached to a second robotic arm; applying laser
energy from the at least one laser fiber to break up an undesired
clump of material into smaller pieces within the chamber of the
patient; aspirating and removing the smaller pieces from the
chamber via the aspiration device; and gradually varying a
parameter of the first tool associated with the laser energy
between a first value and a second value based on a distance that a
tip of the first tool has traveled along a tool path.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein the gradual varying of the
parameter is based on a hardness of the undesired clump of material
at the distance along the tool path.
23. The method of claim 21, wherein the gradual varying of the
parameter further comprises compensating for inconsistencies in a
speed of the tip of the first tool and compensating for movement of
an anatomical structure of the patient.
24. The method of claim 21, wherein the gradual varying of the
parameter is further based on movement of an anatomical structure
of the patient.
25. The method of claim 21, wherein the parameter comprises a speed
of the tip of the first tool.
26. The method of claim 21, wherein the parameter comprises a pulse
energy of the at least one laser fiber.
27. The method of claim 21, wherein the parameter comprises an
effective speed of the tip of the first tool.
28. The method of claim 26, wherein the gradual varying of the
pulse repetition rate further comprises achieving an effective tool
tip speed that is substantially equivalent to a speed of the tip of
the first tool having a consistent pulse repetition rate.
29. The method of claim 21, wherein the parameter comprises a pulse
repetition rate of the at least one laser fiber.
30. The method of claim 21, wherein the tool path comprises a
spiral and the parameter comprises a spacing between arms of the
spiral.
31. The method of claim 21, wherein the at least one laser fiber
comprises a plurality of laser fibers arranged to form a shape
configured to increase an area that is treated by the laser
energy.
32. The method of claim 21, wherein the first tool comprises a
fiber jacket that encloses the at least one laser fiber.
33. The method of claim 21, wherein the at least one laser fiber is
configured to extend beyond a length of a tip of the first
tool.
34. The method of claim 21, wherein the second tool is dedicated to
flush and aspiration.
35. The method of claim 21, further comprising: bending each of the
first tool and the second tool towards a same general location.
36. The method of claim 35, wherein at least one of the first tool
and the second tool is angled from the top down and the other of
the first tool and second tool is angled to undercut the undesired
clump of material.
37. The method of claim 21, further comprising tracking the first
tool to a computer generated map.
38. The method of claim 21, wherein the first tool comprises an
electromagnetic (EM) sensor.
39. The method of claim 21, wherein the laser energy has a pulse
energy, repetition rate and pulse duration that are controlled in
real time.
40. The method of claim 21, wherein the second tool deploys a
membrane umbrella.
41. The method of claim 21, further comprising articulating the tip
of the first tool toward a nucleus of the undesired clump of
material and slowing a speed of the tip of the first tool based on
a distance between the tip of the first tool and the nucleus.
42. The method of claim 21, further comprising varying the pulse
repetition rate of the laser energy between a first pulse
repetition rate and a second pulse repetition rate that is higher
than the first pulse repetition rate based on a distance between
the tip of the first tool and the undesired clump of material.
43. The method of claim 21, wherein: the second tool has a flush
mechanism that operates via a pump that is controlled by a
computer, and the second tool has a flow rate meter that detects a
velocity of liquid that exits the flush mechanism, wherein
information regarding the velocity of the liquid can be sent to the
computer, wherein the computer can change the velocity of the
liquid.
44. The method of claim 21, wherein the at least one laser fiber is
aligned with a neutral axis of the first tool.
45. The method of claim 21, wherein the tool path traverses the
undesired clump of material.
46. A robotic system, comprising: a first robotic arm configured to
control movement of a first tool housing at least one laser fiber;
a second robotic arm configured to control movement of a second
tool comprising an aspiration device; a processor; and a
computer-readable memory in communication with the processor and
having stored thereon computer-executable instructions to cause the
processor to: insert the first tool into a chamber of a patient,
insert the second tool into the chamber of the patient, control the
at least one laser fiber to apply laser energy to break up an
undesired clump of material into smaller pieces within the chamber
of the patient, control the aspiration device to aspirate and
remove the smaller pieces from the chamber, control the first
robotic arm such that a tip of the first tool travels along a tool
path, and control the first tool to gradually vary a parameter of
the first tool associated with the laser energy between a first
value and a second value based on a distance that the tip of the
first tool has traveled along the tool path.
47. The system of claim 46, wherein the gradual varying of the
parameter is based on a hardness of the undesired clump of material
at the distance along the tool path.
48. The system of claim 46, wherein the gradual varying of the
parameter further comprises compensating for inconsistencies in a
speed of the tip of the first tool and compensating for movement of
an anatomical structure of the patient.
49. The system of claim 46, wherein the gradual varying of the
parameter is further based on movement of an anatomical structure
of the patient.
50. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium having stored
thereon instructions that, when executed, cause at least one
computing device to: control movement of a first tool into a
chamber of a patient, the first tool housing at least one laser
fiber and configured to be attached to a first robotic arm; control
movement of a second tool into the chamber of the patient, the
second tool comprising an aspiration device, wherein the second
tool is configured to be attached to a second robotic arm; cause
the at least one laser fiber to apply laser energy to break up an
undesired clump of material into smaller pieces within the chamber
of the patient; cause the aspiration device to aspirate and remove
the smaller pieces from the chamber; and gradually vary a parameter
of the first tool associated with the laser energy between a first
value and a second value based on a distance that a tip of the
first tool has traveled along a tool path.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 61/833,835, (Attorney Docket No.
41663-709.101), filed Jun. 11, 2013, the entire content of which is
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The field of the present application generally pertains to
medical devices. More particularly, the field of the invention
generally pertains to an apparatus, system, and method for robotic
assisted cataract surgery.
[0003] A "cataract" is a clouding of the lens in the eye that
affects vision. Most people develop cataracts due to aging. The
condition is not uncommon; it is estimated more than half of all
Americans will either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery
by age 80.
[0004] FIG. 1 is a diagram of the human eye, included for
background. The major features of the eye 100 comprise the cornea
101, the anterior chamber 102, the iris 103, the lens capsule 104,
the lens 105, the vitreous 106, the retina 107, and the sclera 108.
The lens capsule 104 has an anterior surface 109 bordering the
anterior chamber 102 and a posterior surface 110 bordering the
vitreous 106. Most relevant to cataracts, the lens 105 within the
lens capsule 104 is comprised of a nucleus 111 and cortex 112.
[0005] As shown in FIG. 1, the lens 105 within the eye 100 lies
behind the iris 103. In principle, it works much like a camera lens
by focusing light onto the retina 107 at the back of the eye 100
where an image is recorded. The lens 105 also adjusts the focus of
the eye 100, allowing it to focus on objects both near and far.
[0006] The lens 105 within the eye 100 contains protein that is
precisely arranged to keep the lens 105 clear and allow light to
pass through it. As the eye 100 ages, the protein in the lens 105
may clump together to form a "cataract". Over time, the cataract
may grow larger and obscure a larger portion of the lens 105,
making it harder for one to see.
[0007] Age-related cataracts affect vision in two ways. The clumps
of protein forming the cataract may reduce the sharpness of the
image reaching the retina 107. The clouding may become severe
enough to cause blurred vision. The lens 105 may also slowly change
to a yellowish/brownish tint. As the lens 105 ages, objects that
once appeared clear may gradually appear to have a brownish tint.
While the amount of tinting may be small at first, increased
tinting over time may make it more difficult to read and perform
other routine activities.
[0008] Surgery is currently the only real treatment for cataracts.
Each year, ophthalmologists in the United States perform over three
million cataract surgeries. The vast majority of cataracts are
removed using a procedure called extracapsular cataract extraction
(ECCE). ECCE traditionally comprises of several steps. Incisions
must first be made to the cornea 101 in order to introduce surgical
instruments into the anterior chamber 102. Through the incisions in
the cornea 101 and the space of the anterior chamber 102, the
surgeon may remove the anterior face of the lens capsule 109 in
order to access the lens underneath 105. This phase of the surgery,
known as capsulorhexis, is often the most difficult procedure in
ECCE. Having gained access to the lens through capsulorhexis, a
small amount of fluid may be injected into the exposed lens capsule
104 to improve access and maneuverability of the lens 105. This
phase of the surgery is known as hydrodissection to the skilled
artisan.
[0009] After loosening the lens, it must be extracted.
Traditionally, this phase of the procedure involved manual
extraction of the lens through a large (usually 10-12 mm) incision
made in the cornea 101 or sclera 108. Modern ECCE is usually
performed using a microsurgical technique called
phacoemulsification, whereby the cataract is emulsified with an
ultrasonic hand piece and then suctioned out of the eye through
incisions in the cornea 101.
[0010] A phacoemulsification tool may be an ultrasonic hand piece
with a titanium or steel needle. The tip of the needle may vibrate
at an ultrasonic frequency to sculpt and emulsify the cataract
while a pump aspirates particles through the tip. In some
circumstances, a second fine steel instrument called a "chopper"
may be used to access the cataract from a side port to help with
"chopping" the nucleus 111 into smaller pieces. Once broken into
numerous pieces, each piece of the cataract is emulsified and
aspirated out of the eye 100 with suction.
[0011] As the nucleus 111 often contains the hardest portion of the
cataract, emulsification of the nucleus 111 makes it easier to
aspirate the particles. In contrast, the softer outer material from
the lens cortex 112 may be removed using only aspiration. After
removing the lens material from the eye 100, an intraocular lens
implant (IOL) may be placed into the remaining lens capsule 104 to
complete the procedure.
[0012] One variation on phacoemulsification is sculpting and
emulsifying the lens 105 using lasers rather than ultrasonic
energy. In particular, femtosecond laser-based cataract surgery is
rapidly emerging as a potential technology that allows for improved
cornea incision formation and fragmentation of the cataract.
[0013] Phacoemulsification and laser-based emulsification, however,
still have their shortcomings. Phacoemulsification requires the use
of tools that propagate ultrasound energy along the length of the
tool, from a proximal transducer to a distal tip. The propagation
leads to the transmission of ultrasound energy along the tool to
other tissues proximal to the eye 100. Ultrasound tools also
generate more heat than would be desirable for a procedure in the
eye 100. In addition, the mechanical requirements of propagating
the ultrasound wave along the length of the tool often make it
rigid and difficult to steer around corners or bends.
[0014] Laser-based tools have their own drawbacks. Presently,
manually controlled lasers require careful, precise movement since
they can easily generate unwanted heat in the eye 100. Laser fibers
in the tool are also fragile, and thus easily damaged when
attempting to navigate tight corners. Both limitations increase
surgery time and raise safety concerns.
[0015] An alternative to conventional laser systems, femtosecond
laser systems have their advantages and drawbacks as well.
Femtosecond laser systems may be used to create entry sites through
the cornea 101 and sclera 108 into the eye 100, as well as to
remove the anterior face of the capsule 104. Femtosecond laser
energy may be focused within the lens nucleus 111 itself, and used
to "pre-chop" the lens nucleus 111 into a number of pieces that can
then be easily removed with aspiration. Femtosecond lasers,
however, can only fragment the central portion of the lens 105
because the iris 103 blocks the peripheral portion of the lens 105.
Thus, use of another emulsification technology--ultrasound or
conventional laser--is still necessary to fracture and remove the
peripheral portion of the cataract in lens 105, extending total
procedure time. Furthermore, femtosecond laser systems are also
expensive and costly to operate and maintain.
[0016] Therefore, it would be beneficial to have a new method,
apparatus, and system for performing all the phases of cataract
surgery with improved precision control and reduced procedure
time.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] In general, the present invention provides medical methods,
apparatus and systems. Exemplary embodiments provide a method,
apparatus, and system for robotic assisted cataract surgery. In one
aspect, the present invention provides for a system for robotic
ophthalmologic surgical procedures comprising an instrument drive
mechanism comprising an instrument interface coupled to a robotic
tool, wherein the robotic tool comprises a robotic tool tip, and a
vision system configured to detect a position of at least one of an
anatomical structure of a patient such as an eye of a patient and
the robotic tool tip, and generate a signal in response to changes
to the position, wherein the instrument drive mechanism is
configured to manipulate the robotic tool tip in response to the
signal.
[0018] In related systems, the system may also comprise a robot
master system configured to receive commands from a user and
manipulate the robotic tip in response to a change in position of
the anatomical structure. In some embodiments, the instrument drive
mechanism is a robotic arm. The robotic tool tip will often
comprise one or more of a laser device, an ultrasonic device, an
irrigation device, and an aspiration device. The instrument
interface may be configured to couple to a plurality of different
robotic tools such as at least one of a laser device, an ultrasonic
device, an irrigation device and an aspiration device. A laser
fiber of the laser device may be configured to extend beyond the
length of the robotic tool tip. In embodiments with an irrigation
device and an aspiration device in the robotic tool tip, the
irrigation device and the aspiration device may be jointly
configured to maintain a material volume inside an enclosed
operative space of the anatomic structure. This may include
maintaining a volumetric pressure within the eye of the patient.
The vision system may comprises one or more of a white light
imaging device, a structured light imaging device, or an optical
coherence topographical device. The robotic tool tip may comprise a
reflective marker that is configured to be detected by the vision
system, or the robotic tool tip may be configured to deploy an
umbrella-like structure.
[0019] In another aspect, the present invention provides for a
method of laser emulsification during cataract surgery comprising
detecting a position of at least one of an anatomical structure of
a patient such as an eye of a patient and a robotic tool tip using
a vision system, generating a signal in response to the position,
and manipulating the robotic tool tip using a robotic instrument
drive mechanism in response to the signal which may be a change in
the position, wherein the robotic tool tip is coupled to a robotic
tool that is coupled to an instrument interface of the robotic
instrument drive mechanism. The robotic tool may comprise at least
one of a laser device, an ultrasound device, an irrigation device,
and an aspiration device. A laser fiber of the laser device may be
configured to extend beyond the length of the robotic tool tip. The
irrigation device and the aspiration device may be jointly
configured to maintain a material volume inside an enclosed
operative space of the eye of the patient. In related systems,
robotically manipulating the robotic tool tip includes robotically
maneuvering the robotic tool tip relative to the eye of the
patient, robotically changing the pulse repetition rate of the
laser device of the robotic tool tip, and robotically changing the
pulse energy of the laser device of the robotic tool tip. The
instrument drive mechanism may be configured to manipulate the
robotic tool in response to a change in the position. The
instrument drive mechanism may be configured to manipulate the
robotic tool in response to commands from a user.
[0020] These and other embodiments are described in further detail
in the following description related to the appended drawing
figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] The invention will be described, by way of example, and with
reference to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings, in which:
[0022] FIG. 1 is a diagram of the human eye, included for
background;
[0023] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a robotic surgery system with
laser system according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0024] FIG. 3 is an illustration of the use of two tools with
separate functionality for laser-based emulsification, irrigation,
and aspiration, according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 4 is an illustration of the use of two tools with
separate functionality for laser-based emulsification, according to
an embodiment of the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 5 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a
simple laser fiber tool for robotic control according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C are illustrations of a laser fiber
suction tube with retractable laser fiber according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0028] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, and 7E are illustrations of tool 601
with retractable laser fiber 608 in various stages of extension and
retraction of laser fiber 608;
[0029] FIGS. 8A and 8B are illustrations of various views of
robotically-assisted lasing paths for laser-based emulsification,
according to certain embodiments of the present invention;
[0030] FIGS. 9A and 9B are illustrations of robotic laser tools
that execute a preprogrammed lasing pattern for laser-based
emulsification and aspiration, according to certain embodiments of
the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a robotic laser tool that
executes a preprogrammed spiral lasing pattern for laser-based
emulsification, according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0032] FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D are illustrations and diagrams
that show a lasing protocol that manipulates the pulse energy, tool
tip speed, and pulse repetition rate based on the progress of the
tool along a predetermined tool path according to an embodiment of
the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 12 is a structural illustration of an apparatus with a
laser fiber and a means of aspiration, according to an embodiment
of the present invention;
[0034] FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are block diagrams of systems
with real time flush and/or aspiration control, according to
certain embodiments of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 14 is a diagram of a method of registration for tools
and anatomical objects within the anterior chamber of an eye,
according to certain embodiments of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 15 is a diagram of a method of registration for
non-linear tools and anatomical objects within a lens capsule,
according to certain embodiments of the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 16 is an illustration of a robotic laser tool that
executes a preprogrammed spiral lasing pattern with the aid of a
vision or OCT system, according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0038] FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, and 17D are illustrations and charts
showing the operation of a robotic laser device where a lasing
protocol manipulates the pulse repetition rate based on real-time
information retrieved by a vision or OCT system, according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0039] FIGS. 18A and 18B are illustrations of tool tip articulation
according to certain embodiments of the present invention;
[0040] FIG. 19 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a
one-way bending laser probe. according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0041] FIG. 20 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a
concentric tube laser probe with OCT, according to an embodiment of
the present invention;
[0042] FIG. 21 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a
four-way articulating tool, according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0043] FIG. 22A and FIGS. 22B1-22B3 are illustrations of
top-sectional views of robotically controlled capsulorhexis
procedures according to certain embodiments of the present
invention;
[0044] FIG. 23 is an illustration of a robotic apparatus with an
instrument drive mechanism to couple tools to a robotic system,
according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0045] FIG. 24 is an illustration of a robotic apparatus with a
plurality of instrument drive mechanisms and interfaces, according
to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0046] Although certain preferred embodiments and examples are
disclosed below, inventive subject matter extends beyond the
specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments
and/or uses, and to modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus,
the scope of the claims appended hereto is not limited by any of
the particular embodiments described below. For example, in any
method or process disclosed herein, the acts or operations of the
method or process may be performed in any suitable sequence and are
not necessarily limited to any particular disclosed sequence.
Various operations may be described as multiple discrete operations
in turn, in a manner that may be helpful in understanding certain
embodiments; however, the order of description should not be
construed to imply that these operations are order dependent.
Additionally, the structures, systems, and/or devices described
herein may be embodied as integrated components or as separate
components. Accordingly, the methods and systems of the present
invention are not limited to cataract surgery and other
ophthalmologic applications.
Bimanual Approach
[0047] The present invention relates to a robotic device to assist
surgical procedures in ophthalmology, particularly cataract
surgery. In some embodiments, a plurality of robotic devices may be
used. In embodiments with two robots, each robot may hold its own
laser tool in a dual-tool or "bimanual approach." This approach
allows for greater flexibility, as tools may be interchanged,
positions may be adjusted, and approaches may be altered to allow
for improved access to the operating area. For example, in some
embodiments, the robotic arms may move in different patterns to
speed up the removal of the cataract. In some embodiments, the
robotic arms could move synchronously to treat the same area.
Alternatively, both tools could be pointed towards the same general
location, while a first tool could be angled from the top down and
the other tool angled to undercut the portions of the lens cut by
the first tool.
[0048] FIG. 2 illustrates a robotic surgery system with laser
system according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in
FIG. 2, robotic surgery system 200 comprises a first tool 201 and a
second tool 202. First tool 201 and second tool 202 may comprise at
least one of the following to facilitate removal of cataract
material from a sample lens capsule 203: lasers, optical coherence
tomography (OCT) sensors, imaging systems, video systems, location
sensors, flush devices, aspiration devices, and robotic
articulation control.
[0049] In one embodiment, tool 201 includes a laser and a device
with flush and aspiration capabilities. In one embodiment, tool 201
may be able to break up the cataract with the laser in small
precise regions due to the strong absorption of the laser light by
the cataract material, or water, mesh, or any thermal or mechanical
effect. In some embodiments, the laser light in tool 201 may be
altered to "undercut" the larger pieces of cataract material, i.e.,
use small cuts to remove large pieces.
[0050] In some embodiments, a laser in tool 201 may be coupled to
the cataract though an optical fiber to a tool in the cataract. In
other embodiments, a laser may be coupled through free space
optics. In some embodiments, a laser may be emitted at the tip of
tool 201. In some embodiments, the pulse energy, repetition rate,
and pulse duration of the laser in tool 201 may be controlled in
real-time. In controlling these parameters, a user of tool 201 may
alter the extent and speed of cataract material removal.
[0051] Techniques that incorporate use of a computer-controlled
robotic arm with preprogrammed patterns allow for precise control
and motion of tool 201 and tool 202. Precise control and constant
motion of the tools may allow a user of the tools to optimize the
volumetric rate of removal of the cataract material using tool 201
and tool 202.
[0052] FIG. 3 illustrates an apparatus using two tools for
laser-based emulsification in an eye, according to an embodiment of
the present invention. In FIG. 3, a first tool 304 and a second
tool 305 have separate and distinct functionalities as they operate
within the anterior chamber 303 through incisions 301 in the cornea
302 in the eye 300. First tool 304 may emit laser radiation 306 for
emulsifying cataract material in the lens 307. Second tool 305 may
have flush capabilities 308 and aspiration capabilities 309 to
extract the cataract material and maintain the integrity of the
anterior chamber 303 and lens capsule 310.
[0053] FIG. 4 illustrates an apparatus using two tools for
laser-based emulsification, according to an embodiment of the
present invention. In FIG. 4, a first tool 404 with a laser fiber
and a second tool 405 with a hollow tube operate in the anterior
chamber 403 through incisions 402 in the cornea 401. Laser
radiation from first tool 4404 may be used to break up the cataract
in the lens 408 during laser-based emulsification. However, the
resulting debris plume 406 caused by the breaking up of the
cataract could potentially spray and damage the endothelial cells
of the lens anterior chamber 403. Accordingly, the hollow tube in
second tool 405 may deploy a membrane "umbrella" 407 to shield the
endothelial cells of anterior chamber 403 during the emulsification
process. Upon completion, umbrella 407 may be retracted back into
the hollow tube in second tool 405 through incisions 402 in the
cornea 401. In some embodiments, membrane umbrella 407 may be
pre-shaped by spines created from nitinol.
Laser Tools
[0054] FIG. 5 is a schematic of a simple laser fiber tool for
robotic control in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5, tool 500
may include a laser fiber 501 and outer tube 502. In some
embodiments, the laser signal and energy may be conveyed to the tip
of the tool via a photonic waveguide, a set of mirrors, or a set of
mirrors and lenses. In some embodiments, the space between laser
fiber 501 and outer tube 502 may be used to conduct flush and
aspiration means.
[0055] Embodiments of the present invention may incorporate lasers
with a wavelength near the water absorption peak at 2 .mu.m, 3
.mu.m, 4.5 .mu.m, 6 .mu.m, or 10 .mu.m. Alternatively, a laser near
the protein absorption peak at 280 nm may also be used to remove
cataract material.
[0056] In some embodiments, tools may also contain more than one
laser fiber. This could be used to increase the area that is
treated or create lesions that are particular shapes (for example,
three fibers in a row could produce a longer more knife-like
cut).
[0057] During the operation of the laser, the tip of the laser tool
may be located some distance away from the anterior portion of the
capsule or in contact with the capsule. In the case of the laser
tool being in contact with the capsule, the tip of the tool could
be shaped to provide maximum cutting effect. Depending on the
embodiment, the shapes of the laser tool tip can be flat, round,
tapered to a point, or a combination of the flat, round and tapered
shapes.
[0058] FIG. 6 illustrates a laser fiber suction tube with
retractable laser fiber in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention. FIG. 6A is a general diagram of tool 601, which
contains both a disposable portion 602 and a reusable portion
603.
[0059] FIG. 6B is a detailed diagram of the components within tool
601 where the plunger 604 is extended into a syringe cylinder 605,
which is synonymous with disposable portion 602. Syringe cylinder
605 is proximally connected to reusable portion 603 to allow for
the plunger 604 to extend into the plunger support shaft 606.
Syringe cylinder 605 is distally connected to a suction tube 607
which may sheath a retractable laser fiber 608. Syringe cylinder
605 may also provide access 609 for aspirational means to suction
tube 607. Within reusable portion 603, plunger 604 may be coupled
to a lens coupling housing 610, a lens 611 within lens coupling
housing 610, and a trunk fiber 612 through a plunger snap fitting
813. Plunger 604 may thus be extended into syringe cylinder 605 or
retracted back to reusable portion 603 based on the movement of a
controlled slider 614.
[0060] FIG. 6C is a detailed diagram of the components within tool
601 where plunger 604 is recessed into the reusable portion 603. As
shown in FIG. 6C, when controlled slider 614 is retracted, trunk
fiber 612 and lens coupling housing 610 are also retracted.
Accordingly, plunger 604, which is coupled to lens coupling housing
610 through plunger snap fitting 613, is recessed from syringe
cylinder 605.
[0061] During the emulsification and aspiration of the lens
cataract material, the posterior portion of the capsule is at risk
of being damaged from the laser radiation and the aspiration force.
For example, if portions of the lens capsule membrane are sucked
into the aspiration tube, the posterior portion may be stressed and
torn. This increases the risk of intrusion of the vitreous fluid
into the anterior portion of the eye, which can cause infections
and other eye diseases. To minimize that possibility, in some
embodiments, the laser fiber can be extended beyond the end of the
suction tube to act as a probe when the laser energy is turned off.
The use of the laser fiber as a probe prevents the suction tube
from approaching the capsular membrane and damaging it. The shape
of the laser fiber can be optimized to minimize damage to the
membrane. Examples of the shaped tips include rounded or circular
tips.
[0062] FIG. 7 shows tool 601 with retractable laser fiber 608 in
various stages of extension and retraction. In FIG. 7A, the laser
fiber 608 is extended beyond the end of the suction tube 607 for
purposes discussed earlier. In FIGS. 7B, 7C, 7D, the laser fiber
608 is shown to be retracted such that the end of the laser fiber
sits in the suction tube 607. In FIG. 7E, the laser fiber is shown
to be retracted such that the end of the laser fiber sits in the
syringe cylinder 605.
[0063] In some embodiments of the present invention, robotic
control over preprogrammed patterns of lasing paths may be used to
emulsify and aspirate the cataract from the lens capsule. In some
embodiments, preprogrammed patterns may control the motion of a
tool as well as the laser, flush, and aspiration parameters in
order to optimize the removal of lens material. Compared to a
manual technique, use of a computer-controlled robotic arm with
preprogrammed patterns allows more precise control over the tool
tip, generating more accurate patterns and more consistent motion
that optimize the volumetric rate of removal during
emulsification.
[0064] FIG. 8 illustrates different views of robotically-assisted
lasing paths for emulsification, according to some embodiments of
the present invention. FIG. 8A shows a lasing path 801 with
parallel paths in the lens material 800 from the perspective of the
anterior chamber and anterior portion of the lens capsule. Using a
side-perspective, FIG. 8B shows the depth of a parallel lasing path
804 of the tool tip 803 in the lens material 802. In some
embodiments, the emulsification process is at least partially
enabled by a cavitation bubble that is created from steam generated
by laser energy from a laser tool and fluid from an irrigation
tool. The resulting shockwave from a steam-based cavitation bubble
results in a larger laser effective zone. In some embodiments, the
cavitation bubble may be based on different thermal, mechanical,
and shock waves.
[0065] FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention
where a preprogrammed emulsifying lasing pattern may be executed
either with a simple laser tool (FIG. 9A), or a laser tool with
integrated flush and aspiration means (FIG. 9B). FIG. 9A shows an
apparatus 900 comprising a robot arm 901 and laser-based tool tip
902 as it follows a preprogrammed lasing pattern 907 inside the
lens 906 through incisions in the cornea 904 and the lens capsule
905 of an eye 903. FIG. 9B shows an apparatus 908 comprising a
robot arm 909 and tool tip 910 with laser and integrated flush and
aspiration capabilities as it follows a preprogrammed lasing
pattern 915 inside the lens 914 through incisions in the cornea 912
and the lens capsule 913 of an eye 911.
[0066] FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention
executing a preprogrammed emulsifying lasing pattern that starts in
the center of the eye and spirals out, effectively taking the
nucleus of the eye out while leaving the cortex in place. The
spiral lasing pattern may be executed by an apparatus 1000 with a
robot arm 1001 controlling a laser tool 1002 that follows a spiral
tool path 1007 through lens material 1006 within a lens capsule
1005 in eye 1003. Spiral tool path 1003 starts in the center of
lens capsule 1005 to affect the nucleus 1008 and terminates to
avoid the cortex 1009. The spiral lasing pattern affords more
precise targeting of the hard cataract in the nucleus 1008 while
also avoiding the cortex 1009 in order to minimize the potential
damage to delicate membranes associated with the lens capsule
1005.
[0067] FIG. 11 provides several diagrams and charts to illustrate a
laser-based emulsification protocol that manipulates the pulse
energy, tool tip speed, and pulse repetition rate based on the
progress of the tool along a predetermined tool path in accordance
with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11A illustrates
an embodiment of the present invention where the emulsification
tool tip 1101 travels along a simple tool path 1102 within a lens
capsule 1103.
[0068] FIG. 11B provides a chart detailing how the laser pulse
energy varies depending on the tool tip distance along the tool
path. As shown by line 1105, the preprogrammed protocol increases
the laser pulse energy during the mid-point of the tool path,
represented by a vertical dotted line 1104, where the laser is
aimed at the nucleus, where the cataract is often hardest.
[0069] FIG. 11C provides a chart detailing how the tool tip speed
varies depending on the tool tip distance along the tool path. As
shown by line 1106, the preprogrammed protocol slows tool tip speed
during the mid-point 1104 of the tool path where the laser is aimed
at the nucleus, where the cataract is often hardest.
[0070] FIG. 11D provides a chart detailing how the pulse repetition
rate varies depending on the tool tip distance along the tool path.
As shown by line 1107, the preprogrammed protocol slows pulse
repetition rate during the mid-point 1104 of the tool path where
the laser is aimed at the nucleus, where the cataract is often
hardest. In contrast, the pulse repetition rate may be increased at
the beginning and end of the tool path, when the tool tip is
directed to the cortex, thereby compensating for the speed and/or
improved removal of the softer lens cortex materials. In some
embodiments, lower pulse repetition rate leads to greater laser
pulse energy.
[0071] In some embodiments, the spacing between the arms of the
spiral may be varied depending on the size of debris to be removed
by aspiration. For example, if larger pieces can be removed, the
arms of the gaps between neighboring paths of the spiral may become
wider. As less cutting is required to break up the cataract,
expanding the distance between the arms of the spirals helps reduce
the cutting time. This protocol likely necessitates robotic control
because due to precise spacing within the lens capsule makes the
protocol very difficult to accomplish with a purely manual
technique.
[0072] In some embodiments, raster patterns may remove material in
a systematic x-y-z, grid-like motion. In other embodiments, a
radial pattern reminiscent of a typical quadrant chop-and-divide
technique may be employed.
[0073] In some embodiments, an emulsification patterns may remove
lens material from the anterior portion of the cortex, remove by
lens material from the center of the nucleus, before removing the
remainder of the lens material in other portions of the cortex.
Flush and Aspiration Tools
[0074] In yet another embodiment, the robotic system includes
real-time control of a flush and aspiration device to remove debris
from the chamber. Robotically-controlled fluidic flush and
aspiration tool may improve the precision and accuracy of the
procedure to maintain the material volume in an enclosed operative
space like the interior of an eye. In some embodiments, a tool with
a laser device may also have flush and aspiration capabilities. In
the alternative, a second tool may include a dedicated aspiration
and flush tool.
[0075] FIG. 12 illustrates structural components of an apparatus
with a laser fiber and a means of aspiration, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 12, apparatus
1200 comprises a power source 1201 that provides electricity to a
vacuum pump 1202 coupled through a hose 1203 to a dampener 1204.
The aspiration flow may be transferred from the dampener 1204 to a
tool 1206 through a tube 1205. The dampener 1204 (represented by a
plunger within a cylinder) moderates spikes and dips in the
aspiration pressure in cases of air blockage or occlusion in tool
1206.
[0076] In addition to aspiration means, the tool may also comprise
a laser fiber 1207 that may be extended or retracted using various
mechanical means, such with axial motion from a gear 1208. In this
particular embodiment, all aspirated cataract material passes near
the laser fiber in the aspiration tube as it is being evacuated
from the eye.
[0077] The size of the flush and aspiration channels also directly
influence the size of the pieces of cataract that can be extracted
from the lens capsule. Hence, the size of the channels could
influence the emulsification patterns of the robotic procedure.
[0078] FIG. 13 illustrates block diagrams of several embodiments of
the present invention with real-time flush and aspiration control.
FIG. 13A illustrates a block diagram of apparatus 1300 with
real-time flush control, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention. In FIG. 13A, apparatus 1300 incorporates a pump
1302 controlled by a computer 1308, a pressure vessel 1304, and a
flow rate meter 1306. In apparatus 1300, fluid 1301 is supplied to
pump 1302. Pump 1302 directionally forwards the fluid to pressure
vessel 1304 via a tube 1303. The fluid pumped into pressure vessel
1304 forces liquid that was originally resting in pressure vessel
1304 toward the flow rate meter 1306. The flow rate meter detects
the velocity of the liquid 1305 prior to output 1310 from apparatus
1300. Information regarding the velocity of liquid flow is sent to
computer 1308, which can send pressure signal 1309 to pump 1302.
This creates a feedback loop; by communicating a flow rate feedback
signal 1307 to computer 1308, computer 1308 can respond to the
velocity of the exiting liquid 1305 by controlling the pump 1302
through pressure signal 1309. Hence, if the flow of liquid 1305 is
too great, the flow of fluid from the pump 1302 through tube 1303
may be adjusted downward. Alternatively, if the flow of liquid 1305
is too low, the flow of fluid from pump 1302 through tube 1303 may
be increased to exert more pressure on the liquid in pressure
vessel 1304. The increased pressure in pressure vessel 1304 results
in increased flow of liquid 1305. This feedback loop enables
apparatus 1300 to moderate its liquid flow to a desired flush rate
at output 1310.
[0079] FIG. 13B illustrates a block diagram of apparatus 1300 from
FIG. 13A with the addition of a throttle valve to help facilitate
the flow rate, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention. In this embodiment, represented as apparatus 1311, a
throttle valve 1312 receives the flow control signal 1313 from
either a computer, central processing unit, microcontroller, ASIC,
or other control circuitry which is represented as 1308. The
throttle valve 1312 may further affect fluid flow by limiting
("throttling") the fluid output from apparatus 1311.
[0080] FIG. 13C illustrates a block diagram of apparatus 1311 from
FIG. 13B combined with an aspiration pump that removes material
from the operative site, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, represented by apparatus
1314, a desired aspiration flow 1315 may be obtained by controlling
the aspiration pump 1316 with an aspiration control signal 1317
from computer 1308, which may also be a central processing unit,
microcontroller, ASIC, or other control circuitry. In some
embodiments, computer 1308 may control the pump 1302, the throttle
valve 1312, and the aspiration pump 1316, using the pressure signal
1309, flow (flush) control signal 1313, and the aspiration control
signal 1317 respectively. In some embodiments, the aspiration
control signal 1317 may be generated by the computer 1308 in
response to the aspiration flow rate feedback signal 1319 received
from the aspiration flow rate meter 1318 and the flow rate feedback
signal 1307 from tool flow rate meter 1306.
[0081] Thus, the tool flow rate meter 1306 and aspiration flow rate
meter 1318 may be monitored to track the irrigation and aspiration
flows in order to maintain an appropriate volume in an enclosed
operative space like the interior of an eye of a patient. In this
configuration, irrigation and aspiration flow may be moderated or
interrupted in real-time using pump 1302, throttle valve 1312,
and/or aspiration pump 1316. This may be done in the event that the
aspiration path is unable to match the desired flow rate due to
blockage, pinched tube, or other mechanical failure.
[0082] In some embodiments, the pressure signal 1309 may send a
signal indicating fixed pressure to pump 1302. In those
embodiments, irrigation (flush) flow may be maintained using flow
(flush) control signal 1313 to control throttle valve 1312.
[0083] FIG. 13D illustrates a block diagram of an apparatus with
real-time flush control where the fluid originates from a fluid
reservoir, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention. In FIG. 13D, fluid 1322 in apparatus 1320 originates
from fluid reservoir 1321. Fluid 1322 enters pump 1323 and the
pumped output fluid 1324 sent to flow rate meter 1325 prior to
output 1326. Similar to the flow rate meter 1306 from FIGS. 13A,
13B, and 13C, the flow rate meter 1325 communicates a feedback
signal 1327 about the readings from the flow rate meter 1325 to a
computer, central processing unit, microcontroller, ASIC, or other
control circuitry (represented as 1328) that controls the pump 1323
using a pump control signal 1329. Unlike in FIGS. 18A, 18B, and
18C, the irrigation flow at output 1326 is directly-controlled by
the control signal 1329 to pump 1323, rather than indirectly
through a pressure vessel.
Sensor & Imaging Tools
[0084] In one embodiment, a locational sensor or imaging technique
may also be used to localize different portions of the cataract and
the size of the cataract. Such locational sensors or imaging
techniques may include 3D imaging, OCT, MRI, CT, Ultrasound,
Intra-operative (OCT) or video systems with processing. In some
embodiments, the tool itself may have an OCT device. In some
embodiments, the tool may have multiple degree of freedom (dof)
sensors, such as electromagnetic or fiber sensors.
[0085] FIG. 14 illustrates a method of registration, the act of
locating and tracking objects relative to a computer-generated map,
for tools and anatomical objects within the anterior chamber 1400
of eye 1407, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Having inserted tool 1403 through an incision 1404 in the cornea
1401 in order to access a lens capsule 1402, the boundary and shape
of the lens capsule 1402 may be captured to create a
computer-generated map based on reflective portions of the lens
capsule 1402.
[0086] In FIG. 14, OCT-based techniques may register the tool using
the reflection signal 1406 from the reflective marker at the tool
tip 1405 and the relative location of the tool base (not shown in
FIG. 14). Using kinematics and reverse kinematics, the remaining
portion of tool 1403, i.e., the shaft, may be computed based on the
relative locations of the tool base and tool tip 1405. In OCT, the
signals generate positional information in three dimensions. The
reflective and refractive effects from the cornea and other optical
surfaces may be compensated using optical de-warping. This form of
registration, known as autocorrelation, starts by detecting signals
at the tool tip based on the reflections from the reflective marks.
Thus, using signals generated by this autocorrelation technique,
the entire tool 1403 may be registered within the
computer-generated map in Cartesian coordinates. Beyond OCT, other
imaging modalities, including white light imaging and structured
light imaging, can also be used to determine the location of the
tool with respect to the anatomical features of the surgical
field.
[0087] FIG. 15 illustrates a method of registration for non-linear
tools and anatomy within a lens capsule, according to an embodiment
of the present invention. In FIG. 15, a tool 1500 inserted through
an incision 1501 in the cornea 1502 with a pre-bent tip 1503 with a
reflective marker 1504 to assist autocorrelation of the tool tip
1503. The autocorrelation signal of the tool tip 1503 based on the
reflective marker 1504 is represented as a vertical, orthogonal
line 1505 emanating from the reflective marker 1504. Reflective
markers 1506, 1507, and 1508 may be present at predetermined
intervals along the length of the tool 1500. Using kinematics and
autocorrelation techniques for markers 1506, 1507, and 1508, the
entire tool 1500 may be precisely registered within a
computer-generated map in Cartesian (x-, y-, and z-) coordinates.
Reflection signals 1509, 1510, and 1511 from markers 1505, 1506,
and 1507 respectively may be used for registration.
[0088] Imaging techniques and sensors may also be used to optimize
laser, flush, and aspiration parameters. For example, if it is
detected that the tool tip 1503 is too close to anatomical
structures, the laser power could be reduced to reduce the chance
of injury. Similarly, flush and aspiration pressure may be
manipulated to facilitate removal of the cataract material.
[0089] FIG. 16 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention
executing a preprogrammed spiral lasing pattern with the aid of a
vision, video or OCT system. In FIG. 16, a spiral tool path may be
executed by a robotic system 1600 with a vision or OCT system 1602
and a robot arm 1601 that controls a laser tool 1603 that follows a
tool path 1608 within the lens capsule 1606 in the eye 1604. Like
FIG. 10, tool path 1608 starts in the center of the lens 1607 in
the lens capsule 1606 in the nucleus 1609 and spirals outwards
until it terminates near the cortex 1610.
[0090] In some embodiments, the imaging system can be traditional
white light imaging and structured light imaging. In some
embodiments, robotic controls sensitive to localization sensors and
imaging may improve the safety of the tool and its ability to bound
and calculate a preprogrammed lasing pattern to fit a particular
patient profile.
[0091] FIG. 17 provides several diagrams where a lasing protocol
manipulates the pulse repetition rate based on real-time
information retrieved by a vision or OCT system in accordance with
an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 17A, apparatus 1700
controls a robot tool 1701 with tool tip 1704 in response to
control commands from a doctor 1705 on a robot master system 1702
and a vision or OCT system 1703. Tool tip 1704 may be manipulated
by doctor 1705 over a tool path 1706 through the lens 1711 in the
lens capsule 1710, the nucleus 1713, and lens cortex 1712 in a
patient's eye 1707.
[0092] FIG. 17B provides a chart detailing how the tool tip 1704
and the patient's eye 1707 may move as the doctor maneuvers tool
tip 1704 through tool path 1706. In FIG. 17B, line 1714 illustrates
how tool tip speed varies as doctor 1705 commands the tool tip 1704
to maneuver along tool path 1706. In this example, rather than
maneuver the tool tip 1704 at a steady speed, doctor 1705
increasingly maneuvers tool tip 1704 at a faster rate as it moves
along the tool path 1706. Line 1715 illustrates how the eye 1707
moves as tool tip 1704 moves along tool path 1706. In this example,
the patient's eye 1707 does not remain stationary, but moves as
tool tip 1704 progresses down tool path 1706. Indeed, eye 1707
shifts immediately prior to tool 1704 reaching the lens nucleus
1713, represented by vertical dotted line 1716.
[0093] FIG. 17C provides a chart detailing how apparatus 1700
compensates for variations in tool tip speed 1714 and eye movement
1715 by altering pulse repetition rate in the laser in tool tip
1704. In FIG. 17C, line 1717 illustrates how apparatus 1700 varies
the rate of pulse repetition of laser in tool tip 1704 as it
traverses tool path 1706. As shown by line 1717, near the beginning
of the tool path 1706, apparatus 1700 rapidly increases the pulse
repetition rate when eye 1706 moves to create more exposure to lens
cortex 1709. Conversely, as shown by the intersection of lines 1716
and 1717, when the tool tip 1704 coincides with the nucleus 1713,
the pulse repetition rate quickly drops to address where the
cataract is often hardest. Similar to the embodiment in FIG. 11,
lower pulse repetition rate leads to greater laser pulse energy in
the system of FIG. 17.
[0094] FIG. 17D provides a chart detailing how changes to the pulse
repetition rate represented by line 1718 results in an "effective"
tool tip speed that varies as tool tip 1704 traverses tool path
1706. Line 1718 illustrates how varying the pulse repetition rate
of the laser in tool tip 1704 results in an effective tool speed,
i.e., equivalent tool tip speed assuming a consistent pulse
repetition rate. Consequently, use of vision or OCT systems 1703
allows apparatus 1700 to compensate for inconsistent tool tip speed
and eye movement by altering the pulse rate repetition rate
automatically in real-time. Accordingly, altering the pulse
repetition rate has the same effect altering the tool tip speed,
shown by line 1718 in FIG. 17D.
Tool Articulation
[0095] In some embodiments, the tool tip may sit in a robotically
controlled articulating region. The articulation region may allow
movement of the tip of the tool while avoiding motion in the rest
of the tool. In some embodiments, the articulation region may
include pre-bent tubes, pre-bent tubes recessed within straight or
bent tubes, flexures with control wires, flexures fabricated with
semiconductor fabrication technologies, and flexures with
micro-motors and micro-gears. Use of a robotically controlled
articulating tip minimizes the size of the incision in the lens
capsule necessary to extract the cataract material. Hence, this is
an important technology for capsulorhexis as will be discussed
below.
[0096] An example of an articulating tool is an optical fiber
encased in a pre-bent tube, where the pre-bent tube has a rigid,
straight exterior tube. In some embodiments, the pre-bent tube can
be retracted into the straight tube, creating a tool that can
change from a bent to a straight configuration. The amount of
retraction can be controlled robotically, allowing the bend on the
tool to be synchronized with the tool pattern and or laser
parameters. Use of a pre-bent tube does not limit the articulation
means that can be used with the tool tip, other means include a
flexure with one or more control wires.
[0097] In some embodiments, the present invention may include a
robot for positioning the tip of the tool in space and optionally
providing for angular degrees of freedom for adjusting the
direction of the laser tool. FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrates tool tip
articulation in accordance with certain embodiments of the present
invention. FIG. 18A illustrates concentric tube articulation as the
pre-bent tool tips 1802 and 1804 extend from tools 1801 and 1803.
As shown in FIG. 18A, the pre-bent tool tips 1802 and 1804 exhibit
greater deviation from a neutral axis as they are extended a
greater distance from tools 1801 and 1803.
[0098] FIG. 18B illustrates a detailed view of the tool tip
articulation from the perspective of the laser fiber within the
tool. As shown in tool tip 1805, a shaft 1806 may have an
articulation point 1807 and a bend section 1808 beyond the
articulation point 1807. When unbent, the shaft 1806 and bend
section 1808 remain aligned around a neutral axis 1809. Similarly,
a laser fiber 1810 fixedly coupled to tool tip 1805 would remain
aligned around neutral axis 1809 when unbent. As shown in tool tip
1811, however, when articulated or bent, bend section 1808 may
articulate beyond articulation point 1807.
[0099] FIG. 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a one-way
bending laser probe, according to an embodiment of the present
invention. In this embodiment, the tool 1900 includes a laser fiber
1901 within a laser lumen 1902. The tool's imaginary neutral axis
1903 runs through the laser lumen and the structural members 1904,
1905. Also, the tool 1900 contains a control lumen 1906 with a
control tendon 1907, a flush lumen 1908, and an aspiration lumen
1909. A flexible extrusion 1910 is also included.
[0100] FIG. 20 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a concentric
tube laser probe with OCT, according to an embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, the tool 2000 includes a
laser fiber 2001 surrounded by a polyimide liner 2002. Also, the
tool 2000 contains an OCT fiber 2003 surrounded by a polyimide
liner 2004, a flush lumen 2005, and an aspiration lumen 2006. A
flexible multi-lumen extrusion 2007 and a formed deflectable tube
2008 surrounds the tool 2000 is also included.
[0101] FIG. 21 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a four-way
articulating tool, according to an embodiment of the present
invention. In this embodiment, the articulating tool 2100 includes
a laser fiber 2101 surrounded by a fiber jacket 2102, enclosed
within a structural member 2103. As a four-way articulation tool,
the tool 2100 contains a four control tendons, such as 2104, each
enclosed by a tube member, such as 2105. The tool also contains a
plurality of flush lumens 2106 and aspiration lumens 2107.
Applications for Capsulorhexis
[0102] FIG. 22A and FIGS. 22B1-22B3 illustrate top-sectional views
of a robotically controlled capsulorhexis procedure, according to
two embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 22A specifically
illustrates an embodiment of the invention where the tool tip
(represented in several angles as 2204, 2205, 2206) may access
different portions of the surface of the lens capsule 2203 by
pivoting the tool tip from an incision 2202 in the cornea 2201 of
the eye 2200. In FIG. 22A, the tool tip may be pivoted into a
leftward position 2204 to make incisions on the left section 2207
of surface of the lens capsule 2203. In other circumstances, the
tool tip may be directed straight (shown as 2205) at a
diametrically opposed portion 2208 of the surface of the lens
capsule 2203. In addition, the tool tip may be pivoted to access
the right section 2209 of lens capsule 2203. A laser device may be
coupled to the end of the tool tip in angles 2204, 2205, and 2206.
In some embodiments, pivoting at incision 2202 allows for two part
motion of the tool, including yaw and roll movement.
[0103] FIGS. 22B1-22B3 illustrate top-sectional view of a
robotically controlled capsulorhexis procedure using an embodiment
of the present invention where shaped tubes, axially translatable
to vary articulation angle, enable complex distal tip motion so
that the tool tip may access different portions of the surface of a
lens capsule.
[0104] As shown in scenario 2210, tool 2215 may be directed
orthogonally towards the surface of lens capsule 2214 through an
incision 2213 in the cornea 2212 in eye 2211. Having penetrated
cornea 2212, tool tip 2216 may be extended from tool 2215 to target
a diametrically opposed region 2217 on the surface of the lens
capsule 2214. In scenario 2218, tube 2219 and tool tip 2216 may be
manipulated to maneuver tool tip 2216 to target a right-side region
2220 of the surface of lens capsule 2214. Similarly, in scenario
2221, tube 2219 and tool tip 2216 may be manipulated to maneuver
tool tip 2216 to target a left-side region 2222 of the surface of
lens capsule 2214.
[0105] In some embodiments, a laser device may be coupled to the
end of the tool tip 2216 in scenarios 2210, 2218, and 2221. In some
embodiments, tube 2219 is constructed from pre-bent tubes from
nitinol. In some embodiments, tube 2219 may be articulated using
either pull wires, tendons, or cables. In some embodiments, the
construction of tool 2215, tube 2219, and tool tip 2216 allows for
roll motion, irrigation, and aspiration in both tube 2219 and tool
tip 2216.
Instrument Drive Mechanisms
[0106] FIG. 23 illustrates an apparatus with an instrument drive
mechanism to couple the tools described above to a robotic system,
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. An
instrument drive mechanism is a piece of mechanized equipment
capable of driving an instrument or tool. In FIG. 23, the
instrument drive mechanism 2302 is shown in a close view 2301 of
the entire apparatus 2300. For this embodiment, the apparatus may
be a robotic system with a proprietary instrument drive mechanism,
such as the da Vinci.RTM. Surgical System by Intuitive Surgical,
Incorporated, the Magellan.TM. Robotic System by Hansen Medical,
Incorporated, the Micron by Carnegie Mellon University, or the
Steady-Hand Eye Robot by John Hopkins University.
[0107] FIG. 24 illustrates a robotic apparatus with a plurality of
instrument drive mechanisms and interfaces, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 24, the apparatus 2400
comprises two robotic arms. i.e., instrument drive mechanisms,
identified as 2401 and 2402. Robotic arms 2401 and 2402 each have
an individual instrument interface, shown as 2203 and 2204
respectively. Instrument interfaces 2203 and 2204 may each couple
to a catheter-like tool, such as those discussed earlier.
[0108] In several embodiments of the present invention, the
previously described tools--catheters, laser, OCT, flush and
aspirations tools--may be controlled and coupled to the instrument
drive mechanisms discussed in FIGS. 23 and 24 though instrument
interfaces. Similarly, the components discussed with respect to
FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D, such as flow rate meter, computer,
feedback loop, pump, and pressure vessel, may be coupled to the
robotic arm or instrument drive mechanisms discussed in FIGS. 23
and 24.
[0109] The present invention is not limited to embodiments using
the aforementioned systems and the associated instrument drive
mechanisms. One skilled in the art would appreciate modifications
to facilitate coupling to different robotic arm configurations.
[0110] For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain
aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described. Not
necessarily all such aspects or advantages are achieved by any
particular embodiment. Thus, for example, various embodiments may
be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage
or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily
achieving other aspects or advantages as may also be taught or
suggested herein.
[0111] Elements or components shown with any embodiment herein are
exemplary for the specific embodiment and may be used on or in
combination with other embodiments disclosed herein. While the
invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative
forms, specific examples thereof have been shown in the drawings
and are herein described in detail. The invention is not limited,
however, to the particular forms or methods disclosed, but to the
contrary, covers all modifications, equivalents and alternatives
thereof.
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